Southwark Cathedral London

Southwark Cathedral – Why you should visit this Oldest Gothic Cathedral in London – (has a very special fulltime resident!)

Southwark Cathedral London is an Anglican Church and is located in the South Bank of River Thames. Located just next to the Borough Market which is a thriving environment and easily accessible via London Bridge Station [see below on Useful information]

Southwark Cathedral London | A magnificent Gothic Cathedral and a historical masterpiece

This magnificent Cathedral boasts a Gothic architecture and a history that goes way back to 606 AD where people have come here to worship. It was once, the site of Roman pagan worship. . The original site was mostly destroyed by fire in 1212 but there are remnants of original Norman construction of ragstone rubble, chalk and lead. These Norman influences can be seen in the rounded arches at the back right of the Cathedral and the arched doorway that leads into the church. The distinguishable medieval Gothic elements can be seen in parts of the front of the Cathedral as well.

Southwark Cathedral London | A significant place of worship and hospitality

^{The magnificent exterior architecture of Southwark Cathedral, London | Image: georgina_daniel}

Described “as ‘thin places’ where you can glimpse and touch a little bit of heaven and experience something of the hospitality of God”, Southwark Cathedral is truly a remarkable Church. In my travels, I have visited many Cathedrals, but this was something else…there was a sense of peacefulness at this Church which I had not experienced elsewhere before.

I learnt that back in the day, this Priory was important to London not just as a place of worship but also because it was a place for education and hospitality – John Gower, the poet, once lived here. His tomb is located in the north aisle of the nave of the Cathedral. It is a brightly coloured tomb – you will not miss it.

Learn more about John Gower

Southwark Cathedral London: The splendid interior

^{The incredible Gothic architecture of Southwark Cathedral, London | Image: georgina_daniel}

The interior of the Cathedral boasts another splendid sight. The incredible architecture with its intricate details, the curves, the alcoves and the stained glass windows…there are no special words except that it is simply “beautiful” – see ⇓⇓. The vaulted ceilings are a Must See! With the sunlight coming through into this large and airy space, it makes walking through the Cathedral a very relaxing experience.

The stained-glass windows – splendidly beautiful with the sun shining through.

Southwark Cathedral - Stained-glass windows — ^{Southwark Cathedral – Stained-glass windows | Image: georgina_daniel}

Hope that I have convinced you enough to visit Southwark Cathedral, but if not, then I am certain the following attraction will – a visit to the member of the Southwark Cathedral family…

Doorkins Magnificat at Southwark Cathedral London

I visited Southwark Cathedral a couple of times since last summer, and besides the stained-glass windows, the breath-taking Gothic ceiling and its history, the highlight of my first visit was Doorkins Magnificat. I was with MT, who took a picture of this adorable furry baby, asleep in her bed. Doorkins is 12-years old and she likes to sleep. She does not like to be disturbed as she would be grumpy! She has been part of the Cathedral’s family since 2008 and has her own line of merchandises, her story book and a twitter account [@DoorkinsM]. To read more on Doorkins, click here

Other highlights at Southwark Cathedral London

Shakespeare’s Memorial and window
The Harvard Chapel
The Herb Garden
The Archaeological Chamber

Travel tips and Useful information on Southwark Cathedral London

Opening times: 08:00 to 18:00

Entry – is FREE

Photography permit – £1.00 and it comes with a Souvenir Guide

Fully accessible for wheelchair users and limited mobility users.

Getting to Southwark Cathedral London:

The best way to get here is by the Underground or Trains. The nearest Station to Southwark Cathedral London is London Bridge, less than 5-minute walk.

Exit London Bridge, onto Tooley Street. opposite the Hay’s Galleria. Cross-over and head west towards London Bridge Hospital. Walk-under London Bridge and past the London Tombs and Mudlark Public House. You will reach the courtyard on the north side of the Cathedral.

Address: London Bridge, London, SE1 9DA

Telephone: +44 (0)20 7367 6734

https://cathedral.southwark.anglican.org

Finally…

With so many sights in London to see and a gazillion things to do, Southwark Cathedral often goes unnoticed by tourists. A beautiful attraction, it is a place I would recommend and sincerely hope that this post has been valuable to you in planning your visit.

Have a splendid time discovering London!